The Broken Brain

Dr. Shari Corbitt is the founder and director of Awakenings Treatment Center, and an expert in Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, and Complex Trauma. In our discussion she shared information about the frustrations, misunderstandings, and lack of compassion that many run into when dealing with chronic pain. She also taught me a lot about the hope, thriving, and support that can (and should) be there for those working with pain, and how important an understanding of PTSD and trauma is to understanding and experiencing treatment.

This is a rerun episode from several years ago. I am re-releasing it due to the outbreak of Opioid and Fentanyl overdoses that is currently happening within the drug-using population. More to come on that. NOTE: this episode focuses on a Harm-Reduction approach, including positive statements regarding the use of opiate-blockers and Suboxone. Jamilia is a specialist in that area. Jamelia Hand returns to the Broken Brain to discuss the dynamic of drug overdose and how this plays a role in recovery, especially for Opiate and Heroin addiction. We discuss things like Harm Reduction, Treatment beyond quitting, dangers of overdose, and the use of the label of "addict," amongst other things.

Tim Pickett is a Physician's Assistant (PA-C) in the State of Utah. He is a member of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians, a founding team member of utahmarijuana.org and one of the hosts of the Utah in the Weeds Podcast. He is an advocate and educator for safe, research based Medical Marijuana use. He writes and speaks in order to de-stigmatize prescription of Cannabis. We discuss pros, cons, risks and benefits of Marijuana prescription.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is a diagnosis that was created to help treatment of children in order to differentiate between non-cycling mood instability (especially anger) and Bipolar Disoder. This is another Quadruple D episode, Deep Dives Delving into Diagnosis. I'll review the diagnostic criteria and talk a little about this diagnosis, added for the first time to the DSM 5, the current version of the Diagnostic manual for mental health disorders.

This is a rerun of a classic episode and partnership episode of the Broken Brain. Right before the release of the MonkeyTraps book and podcast, Steve Hauptman appeared on the Broken Brain to talk about the desire for Control, and how it plays into our own addictive processes. Check out the book Monkeytraps, and listen to the first several chapters for no charge on the MonkeyTraps Podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.

About 10 minutes of updates and stuff. I haven't talked about the goals of the program or who I even am for quite a while. A few minutes talking about: What are the goals of this show? Why is it called The Broken Brain? What's coming up? I'd love to hear from you. Check in with me @breakabrain on the Twitter. Join the new mental health, trauma and addiction group I started on Facebook: IIOP https://www.facebook.com/groups/innovateintensive/

New recurring feature for the podcast: Quintuple D! D's Deep Dive into Dope Diagnoses or DDDDD Today we dive into Major Depressive Disorder, starting a series of deep dives into Depressive Disorders. Although there is no such diagnosis of simple depression, there are many disorders representing the different types of depression. This episode focuses on the most commonly diagnosed, Major Depressive Disorder.

This is a rerun episode of the Podcast from 2015, when I spoke to addiction specialists Rev-Kev Coughlin and Ron Siegel about addictive gambling. There is a fascinating dynamic behind non-substance addictions, also known as "process addiction," one that can often be downplayed to our own detriment.

The animated film Song of the Sea is super cool. That's good enough reason to talk about it, but it also effectively showcases the effects of complicated grief and loss. And who better to have this conversation with than Podcaster, Pop Culture Expert, and founder of the Core Temp Arts Podcast Network, Karly Beaumont. Focusing on a dual story that intertwines real life and a fairy tale, this story demonstrates the options of lashing out at others, shutting down, or embracing feelings of loss and beginning the difficult path to healing. While we'd suggest watching the film, this episode starts out with a quick synopsis of the movie by friend of the show Bri Poe.

The history of how we diagnose psychological issues is long, interesting, and several kinds of messed up. We begin to take that apart today. I was joined for this conversation by Tehya Fencik (TK), creator & host of "For The Love Of History Podcast." As a historian, TK found incredible information about therapeutic communities in the early 1900s. "The Statistical Manual for Use of Institutions for the Insane" is a text written in 1918 and an early attempt at categorizing mental health disorders. While it never caught on, it represents an experiment in the type of thinking that led to modern diagnostic practice.

Photographer and author Antonio Johnson is on the podcast today to talk about his book, You Next: Reflections in Black Barber Shops, a beautiful photography book profiling the culture of Black Barber Shops and the role they play in the development and identity of Black men. These shops fill the community center, a space of belonging, a center of wellness, and more. This is a fascinating look at identity development, bonding, and individual, societal, and generational racial issues. Learn more about Antonio's work at www.antonio-johnson.com. The Broken Brain will be giving out 2 copies of You Next to our next 2 Patreon subscribers. Our new Patreon page at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain has rewards for supporters of the show, and the next 2 official patrons will receive a copy of Antonio's book.

Sharon Blady returns to the podcast! This time we are discussing Marvel's new TV series The Falcon & The Winter Soldier, and the heavy elements of psychological development woven into that series. We discuss Trauma, amends work, recovery, trust, generational distress, racism...what don't we talk about? Give it a listen and find out! The go to www.speak-up.co to learn more about Sharon's work in mental health education and recovery. If you would like to hear this month's bonus episode where Sharon and I delve into WandaVision, sign up to become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, and you can get access to that and other goodies.

Rerun from 2019 (new episode also coming out Wednesday) Lisa Frederiksen is an author, speaker, and expert in the area of Secondhand Drinking, a term she coined to describe the effects of alcohol abuse on those within the support system of those caught in addiction. Lisa discusses the complexity of addiction, the sometimes damaging labels of codependent or enabler, and what to do to protect yourself in one of life's most difficult situations. Check out her book, The 10th Anniversary Edition of If You Loved Me You'd Stop.

Colleen Thomas is an expert in rituals and rites of passage. She even started a podcast about it called Shame Piñata. She talks here about the importance of rituals and rites in our lives, and how creating your own rituals can be a powerful way to heal from trauma, grief, and stress. Colleen was a guest on the Let's Chat Live YouTube show focused on introductions to new podcasts, and I was lucky enough to be guest hosting that day. Check out Colleen's show and also the Let's Chat Live Show on Youtube. If you want to support the show and get some cool rewards, check out The Broken Brain Patreon page at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain.

When a loved one is caught up in addiction, they suffer. So do we. Terms like "enmeshment," "enabling," and "codependent," sometimes serve to shame and confuse more than to help. Beth Gardner is an expert in helping those who have loved ones deep in addiction. As a life Coach, a champion rower, cancer survivor, and research expert, Beth has built up resources and expertise in helping those who support their loved ones. In this episode she talks about addiction, sobriety, trauma, and empathy. Learn more about Beth's work at selfreliant.info Become a patron of the Broken Brain at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, check out the tiers of rewards we have set up. Or drop us a tip at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain. It helps to fund more frequent episodes with more Brain-Breakingly cool stuff.

Kristen Lopez is a Film and TV critic, writer, and creator and host of the Ticklish Business Podcast. She joins me on the Broken Brain to discuss the depictions, tropes, and (often) failures of Hollywood in capturing the experience and the depictions of individuals with disabilities on the big screen.

Hannah Boone & Reed Anderson are comedians and podcasters who work in the medium of mental health related humor, among other funny things they talk about. They join me today to discuss the balance of being funny and sharing their own mental health and trauma. How can you be funny about things that are so serious? When do the jokes land, when do they not, and how does the crowd react? Check out their Podcast, Disordered, on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you pick up your freshly baked podcasts!

Sharon Blady is the creator of Embrace Your Superpowers & Bulletproof to Stigma, and a passionate advocate for mental health and Trauma Recovery. Last time on the program she shared the concept of reframing mental health 'struggles' into harnessing them as our personal superpowers. This time we discuss the film Captain Marvel and its empowerment and images of recovery.

Abi Perez is a mental health advocate, mediator, and the creator and host of the Friends of Friends AmigosDAmigos Podcast. She joins today to talk about her experiences with mental health within the Mexican-American community, the importance of community, relationships, conflict, self-awareness, and the power of a nonjudgemental attitude. Become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or give a one time tip at Brains Breaking www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

This week's episode is an opportunity I had to interview with Bernard Ennis, the host & creator of the Your New Favourite Song Podcast, and of the band The Ennrons. Originally this was a live broadcast on the Let's Chat Live show on YouTube. I am including it in the Broken Brain's feed because Bernard talks about music as a creative outlet, and finding new ways to engage with and find music that you love. Become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or give a one time tip at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

2021 looks good when Brian Bachand is a returning guest! Founder of Evolution Evolution, Brian returns to teach us about creating plans, navigating change, and deciding when and how to take your next leap into the future. He even gives us a little advice regarding New Years Resolutions... Brian's suggested charity is ACCES Employment, a foundation assisting immigrants to Canada to find work. Get involved today at accesemployment.ca Learn more about Brian's company & work at evolutionevolution.com Become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or give a one time tip at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

Chris Revill of The Let's Chat Podcast joins the show once again to discuss the Holiday special The Snowy Day, based on the book by Ezra Jack Keats. We review specifically the 2016 adaptation. We have a lot of fun and talk about Holiday plans, relationships, and life in a city environment This episode's charity of focus is Your Local Food Bank. This year the need for food relief is up at least 300%, so please give what you can. Happy Holidays, whatever this means for each of you! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

Britt Nicole is the host and creator of the You Me and PTSD Podcast. Britt is a certified Life and Resilience Coach specializing in working with individuals whose lives have been affected by Combat Trauma. She joins today to discuss her work, her perspective on trauma, and the experiences she has shared with husband, a combat veteran with combat PTSD. Become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or give a one time tip at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

Michael Kaplen is an Attorney who specializes in working with those who have suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), helping individuals to secure their rights and receive services addressing their injuries. Michael is also the Chair of the New York State TBI Services Coordinating Council, former President of the Brain Injury Association of NY State, and has held a host of other leadership positions in the area of TBI Law. He joins me today to discuss legal and other issues facing TBI patients. Learn more about Michael's practice at www.brainlaw.com Become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or give a one time tip at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

Brian Bachand is the Founder and CEO of Evolution Evolution, a Global Coaching company focused on professional and personal changes. Brian is no stranger to life's transitions. 13 years ago he had the experience of Coming Out to friends and family, and left his position as a Catholic Priest. Brian joins the show to talk about his story and tips for listeners who may be contemplating major life changes.

Dr. Steven Mandel, Founder and President of Ketamine Clinics of Los Angelas, returns to the show, with Sam Mandel, Clinic Director. Dr. Mandel is a pioneer in the use of Ketamine to treat Depression, Suicidality, PTSD, and other psychological disorders. As a returning guest, he updates us on what has changed in the research and use of Ketamine over the past year, and we talk about the health impact that depression and suicide have in our society in general, and in the time of the COVID19 Pandemic. Become a patron of the show at www.patreon.com/brokenbrain, or give a one time tip at www.buymeacoffee.com/brokenbrain

Clare Waismann is the Founder and Director of Waismann Method® Opioid Treatment Specialists. She joins me today with David Livingston, her Clinical Director. Clare and David also host the Waismann Method® Podcast Clare & David help people through the process of Opioid withdrawal with the process of Rapid Detoxification. They join me to talk about the role that detox plays in treatment.

Ivuoma Okoro is a masterful storyteller who created the Vega podcast, a super exciting sci-fi audio experience. The show recently returned with the remainder of season 1, and Ivuoma gave me a copy of the season 2 trailer. Check out the show today! You will love it. Follow the show @vegapodcast, and visit Ivuoma's website: ivuomatellsstories.com This is an episode in the Meet Creative People Project. If you know creators, especially Black artists or People of Color, that you would like to see highlighted, please let me know @breakabrain.

Josh Wood returns once again so we can talk about where we are in the UK and the USA in coping with the worldwide COVID pandemic. HEADS UP, we do get a little political in this chat, we are both fans of the universal healthcare model, and other stuff. We talk about our opinions and experiences in our different roles and nations. Josh is the business manager for Improving Lives, a health advocacy and helping charity in Nottinghamshire, UK. Learn more about them at improvinglivesnotts.org.uk

Dr. Delice Coffey is the first Sports Psychologist to appear on the program, and boy did we luck out to have her! An accomplished clinical therapist, sports psychologist, former powerlifter. She speaks about training, mental focus, follow through, and mental health management. She also shares information about her excellent nonprofit, the D Coffey Foundation for Athletics and Education. Learn more about this at: http://www.athletesponsorship.org/

Darryl Mansel has created a positive and amazing culture in the Poprika Podcast and FaceBook Group, talking all things pop culture, comics, books, and films. This is a sample episode he gave me permission to share with Broken Brain listeners. Subscribe to Poprika today! This is an episode in the Meet Creative People Project. If you know creators, especially Black artists or People of Color, that you would like to see highlighted, please let me know @breakabrain.

Deshanta Hairston graduated with her degree in Professional Writing before before noticing an alarming lack of an independent bookstore in her community. She remedied this by opening Books and Crannies. Recently she went viral on Twitter, and is here today to tell us about business, bookselling, going big online, and being a Black business owner. Basically she's telling us how to make a dream a reality. Today's charity of focus is the Alzheimers Association. Learn more and get involved at www.alz.org

This episode is a sample episode of the History of Color Podcast, another show on the Core Temp Arts podcast network. Allegra Alvarado, host and creator of the show, gave me permission to share this episode on the Broken Brain feed. This is episode 4 of her show, and she tells the story of the Black Suffragette movement. Give is a listen and subscribe to History of Color today. This episode is part of the Meet Creative People project, introducing you to creators that you should know. If you know creative people of color or black creators, artists, or innovators please let me know @breakabrain on Twitter.

Ian Levy is a Professor of Counseling for Manhattan College. When Ian was working as a School Counselor in the South Bronx (New York City public schools) Ian used his talent and experience as a Hip-Hop artist to engage with young people. He joins me today to share some practical examples of his work, as well as to explain what research he is doing into this area. Ian was kind enough to share the track "Showman," from his latest musical project "And Then It Glistens." You'll hear it as the intro music and then the entire song follows our interview. Check out the entire album on Apple Music or at his website: www.Ianplevy.com The Broken Brain's featured Charity this week is Upbeat NYC, a nonprofit music education organization for kids.

Karly Beaumont is the owner and creator of the Core Temp Arts network of podcasts. She joins me to day to tell her story of the work that she does recording, producing, and managing a team of podcasts. Karly has a history of managing nonprofit work, photography, and art. Learn more about her work at www.coretemparts.com This episode is the first in the Broken Brain's Meet Creative People project. I will be introducing you to creators that you should know. If you know creative people of color or black creators, artists, or innovators please let me know @breakabrain on Twitter.

Sharon Blady is a Superhero, and so are You! Sharon is the former Minister of Health for the province of Manitoba and is a renowned speaker and trainer. She has a remarkable story of her own experiences with mental health, and takes a strengths-based approach to reframing our own characteristics and symptoms using Comics and Pop Culture. Learn more at her website http://www.speak-up.co/, and watch her presentations on YouTube (especially her talk on Hiding in Plain Sight).

Josh Wood, Business Manager for Improving Lives, returns to the show to talk about social distancing and managing healthcare needs during the pandemic. We talk about using technology to work with mental health needs, possible difficulties of isolation, and ways people cope. We are even able to have a chuckle here and there in the midst of all of this craziness. Josh is a wonderful person and a passionate advocate, glad to have him back. Hope that all of you listening are somewhere safe with those you love. Be careful.

Robert Melillo is an expert in childhood neurological disorders. He is the founder and director of the Brain Balance Centers. He joined me to discuss his background and the methods he uses to help children with ADHD, developmental delay, or who are on the Autism Spectrum. We discuss what parents can do to work with their children at home, especially at this time during the health crises when so many are stuck at home.

Josh Wood is the business manager for Improving Lives, a medical and mental health support service for patients in Nottinghamshire. Josh helps me understand the needs of the population they serve, obstacles to mental health recovery, and a little bit about the UK health system for good measure. Learn more about this important organization at: https://www.improvinglivesnotts.org.uk/

Chris Aiken MD of the Mood Treatment Center, and author of the book "Bipolar Not So Much," joins me today to discuss his research and practice in the area of dietary interventions to help with symptoms of Bipolar and Mood Disorder. This is the real deal, medically researched and balanced dietary tips to help reduce symptoms of depression and mania.

This is a Continuing Education Credit (CEU) training for the Aspire Network of Counselors. Feel free to listen in as well. Zach Butterfield is a Licensed Counselor and certified in the use of Neurofeedback for psychological therapy. He was kind enough to train the clinicians in our office on the ins and outs of Neurofeedback, and do a live demonstration (which is largely visual, we tried to edit that part down a bit).

Ketamine Infusion Treatment is an exciting new therapy for the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and other psychological conditions. Dr. Stephen Mandel is a pioneer in the use of this treatment, and talked to me about the use and results from ketamine therapy in his practice. You can learn more about ketamine and his ongoing practice/research at www.ketamineclinics.com.

Electro Convulsive Therapy or ECT is an important last resort in the treatment of treatment resistant depression. Mike and Dwight had the chance to sit down with the head physician over the ECT department of the University of Utah Hospital. We discuss stigma, other treatment options, side effects, and the complicated nature of this major psychiatric intervention.

Lee Messersmith and I discuss the dynamics of restraint in clinical settings, a weird element of intensive psychiatric care. Rerun from a few years ago.

Rerun of my episode about the African social service organization "Confident Children Out of Conflict," an important organization helping children. I interview Caitlin Cockroft, their publicity and social media director. Go to their website and make a donation today!

A Rerun of one of our most popular training episodes: Another wonderful training at Aspire for Continuing Education Units (CEU) to help all of us counselors keep our licenses. This one is by Licensed Clinical Social Worker Janet Mitchell. Janet is an expert in the area of Self Care, which is defined as the ability to increase, improve, and maintain mental health through a healthy lifestyle. More than just a reminder to exercise and eat right, Janet has created some tools and techniques to help us to identify which areas of our life will increase our ability to zone into a meditative or mindful place of health.

A Broken Brain Classic Rerun! Our Good Buddy Candice Christiansen (owner and Clinical Director of Namaste Center for Healing) joins us to talk trauma, addiction, recovery, and healing. We discuss EDMR, Cognitive Therapy, Exposure, and BOTH of our dogs.

Psychological studies show that infants have a much deeper and more rich mental life than we have previously believed. As a new father (for the third time) I want to know what my infant daughter is up to, and this interview with Dr. Annette Henderson, a Developmental and Research Psychologist who studies infants at Auckland University, and taught me that she is up to a lot!